LDF to be vigilant over Sabarimala misuse

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With BJP and organisations affiliated to Sangh Parivar allegedly attempting to invoke Ayyappa for soliciting votes, the LDF leadership has directed its cadre across the state to be vigilant and get hold of pamphlets, speeches, campaign materials intended to use religious places including Sabarimala for catching votes.

The Left leaders said while the Chief Electoral Officer’s warning right in the beginning of the campaign has brought clarity on the issue and sounded a warning against use of religion for soliciting votes, it may not be possible for officials to lay their hands on pamphlets and poll material being created clandestinely to trigger communal polarisation in the state.

The LDF leaders it was because of their strict vigil that they could get hold of BJP pamphlets with the pictures of Ayyappa and Narenda Modi. These were being distributed in localities for seeking votes.

Moreover, another pamphlet allegedly printed by Sabarimala Karma Samiti was also being handed out to electorate with clear accusations against the LDF- Congress stand on Sabarimala issue.

These campaign materials were submitted to CEO along with a complaint. When contacted CEO Mr Teeka Ram Meena said; ‘We have taken serious cognisance of the complaint. We will be getting report from the returning officer and police authorities. After getting the factual report we will form our opinion and send our recommendation to the Election Commission.’

He said the complaint will be processed without any delay though there is no specific time frame.

‘We have taken it very seriously and we will take swift action on the issue.’

Mr Meena said the officials will inquire about the printer, publishers and those who have prepared the draft of the pamphlet.

‘We will fix the accountability,’ he said.

The CEO said despite clear orders, political parties are trying to do all this mischief. ‘All political parties gave me the commitment that they will abide by the model code of conduct. Since officials cannot reach each and every place, it is good that political parties are coming up with complaints against their rivals,’ he said.

The CEO said a complaints cell has been set up under senior officials to examine complaints on a daily basis.